How far apart should the plants be?

We recommend 8 feet in the row and 6 feet between rows or 3 feet wider than the equipment.

When is the best time to plant the blackberries?

We recommend any time from the last freeze in the spring to about two weeks before the first freeze in the fall.

What is the best type of structure to support the plants?

On a mature plant, you will get five canes that will grow up to 40 feet long each. The support is needed so you can keep the fruit at a height that makes picking easy. Generally, a grape-type trellis is best with 12 gage wire at three, four, five, and six feet. Tie the primary canes along the bottom wire using binder twine or the new berry clips sold. The plastic clips can easily be reused and last several seasons. With the primary along the bottom, the laterals should grow up towards the sun. Arrange them so they get as much sun as possible, tying them the same as the primaries. When the laterals get to the top, cut about two inches off the tip. New canes growing for next year's crop should be attached the same way but on the opposite side of the wires so it will be easy to remove the dead canes after they have fruited. If you want a DIY project, check out this article on making a Balcony Garden!

How large are the berries?

Generally the fruit will be one to one and a half inch long. Letting the fruit fully ripen will greatly add to the length.

How sweet is the berry?

If allowed to fully ripen, it is very sweet. According to a winery, the sugar was 11% compared to about 6% for wild blackberries. If it is “picked' instead of letting it fall into your hand, it will not be sweet and will pucker your mouth like a lemon.

How does the taste compare to other blackberries?

This depends on your taste preferences but generally, since it is sweet, the taste is pleasing to most people.

Do I need to protect the plant from our extreme winters?

Our winters in Indiana get down to as low as 10 below Fahrenheit and as high as 105 in summers… its pretty extreme. We have not done anything to protect the plants and they have survived for over 35 years. In colder areas with temperatures below minus 20, it is necessary to provide some protection. Snow is the first choice, then a high tunnel or 6 mil white or clear plastic temporary greenhouse is all that is needed and it will extend the growing season also.

How and when do I prune the plants?

We have never pruned the plants but rather we let the canes grow to full length. Tipping the primaries at any length will cause the laterals to grow longer but total plant and fruit production should be the same. After the plant has fruited, the two-year-old canes will die and need to be removed back to the ground to get rid of clutter and let more sunshine get to the new canes. This can be done two months or more after fruiting ends but generally, there are fewer errors in cutting in the spring. The plant recovers nitrogen from the dying canes and stores it to use in the spring to get the plant started growing again.

When is the best time to plant the blackberries?

We recommend any time from the last freeze in the spring to about two weeks before the first freeze in the fall.

How long does the plant live?

We actually don't know! We have plants over 30 years old still producing. Generally at about 15 years old the production declines but we don't know if this was from age or shortage of fertilizer as they had never been fertilized after the year of planting. Two customers have reported their plants are over 40 years old.

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Planting Thornless Blackberries: Your Ultimate Guide to a Lush Harvest

Blair DigitalGuider • August 8, 2024

Planting Thornless Blackberries: Your Ultimate Guide to a Lush Harvest

Are you dreaming of a garden full of sweet, juicy blackberries without the hassle of thorns? At Doyle’s Thornless Blackberry, we understand the joys and challenges of growing your own berries, and we're here to help you succeed. If you’re new to planting thornless blackberries or just looking to refine your approach, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know to get started and ensure a plentiful harvest.

Why Thornless Blackberries Are a Game-Changer

Blackberries are a beloved fruit, but traditional varieties often come with thorns that make harvesting a chore. Thornless blackberries, like Doyle’s Thornless Blackberry, offer a fantastic solution. These plants eliminate the pain and frustration of dealing with thorns, making the picking process easier and more enjoyable. Plus, they produce large, delicious berries that are perfect for fresh eating, jams, and desserts.

Selecting the Ideal Spot for Your Plants

To get the best results, start by choosing the right location for your thornless blackberries. These plants thrive in sunny spots that receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. The more sun they get, the better the fruit production. Avoid areas with heavy shade or constant dampness, as these conditions can lead to poor growth and increased risk of disease.

Preparing the Soil

Good soil preparation is key to growing healthy blackberry plants. Blackberries prefer soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay or overly sandy, improve its quality by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure. This will help with drainage and provide the nutrients your plants need to grow strong. A soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal, so consider testing and adjusting if necessary.

How to Plant Your Thornless Blackberries

When you’re ready to plant, space your thornless blackberry bushes about 4 to 6 feet apart. This spacing gives each plant enough room to grow without crowding. Dig a hole that’s about twice as wide as the root ball of your plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, water well, and gently pack it down to eliminate air pockets.

Essential Care Tips

Taking care of your blackberry plants is crucial for a successful harvest. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods. Water deeply at the base of the plants to ensure the roots get sufficient moisture. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and reduce weeds. Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base but keep it away from the stems.

Exploring Our Other Offerings

At Doyle’s Thornless Blackberry, we’re not just about blackberries. We also offer a variety of gardening tools, fertilizers, and additional berry plants to help you create a thriving garden. Check out our selection to find everything you need to support your gardening goals.

Bottom Line

Planting blackberries thornless is a fantastic way to enjoy the pleasures of homegrown fruit with less hassle. Doyle’s Thornless Blackberry is an excellent choice for anyone looking to grow delicious, easy-to-harvest berries. By following these simple tips, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and rewarding gardening experience. Explore our range of products to further enhance your garden, and start planting today to enjoy the sweet rewards of thornless blackberries!

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